Barriers to the provision of genetic services by primary care physicians: a systematic review of the literature

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this literature review is to report primary care physicians' perceived barriers concerning the provision of genetic services.

Methods: Sixty-eight papers were identified in six electronic databases. Only publications classified as empirical studies (N = 18) were included in this review.

Results: Barriers identified most frequently in reviewed studies were inadequate knowledge of basic genetics, lack of detailed or updated family histories, lack of confidence, and lack of referral guidelines.

Conclusion: Although many primary care physicians perceive genetics as a low practice priority, they do report a need for educational programs in genetics, informational resources, and referral guidelines.